The discovery of the treasure trove of 86 silver coins in Ham Green, Redditch, in 1981 offers a glimpse into the tumultuous period of English history during the mid-17th century. The coins, which were declared treasure and acquired by the Worcestershire County Museum Service, provide a fascinating historical context.
The treasure includes primarily shillings and sixpence coins, ranging from the reign of Philip and Mary (1554-1558) to those of Charles II, dating specifically from 1661-1662. These coins cover a significant period marked by events such as the first and last battles of the English Civil War, the execution of Charles I, Charles II's escape from Worcester in 1651, and his eventual restoration to the throne less than a decade later.
One of the notable coins in the hoard is half of Charles I's crown, which was minted around 1644-1656 and bears a "W" mark, indicating it was minted in Worcester or a related mint. During the Civil War, Royalists established several extraordinary mints to ensure they had the means to fund their military and logistical needs, given the compromised state of currency circulation. Hartlebury Castle, the residence of the Bishop of Worcester, was another location where a similar mint was established.
While the exact reason for hiding these coins around ten years after the Battle of Worcester and the end of the English Civil War remains unknown, the coins themselves offer valuable insights into the historical context of the time.
